THE KING AND THE HANDMAIDEN
9
But once more the insolent fellows omitted to show respect
and, like beggars, snatched away the viands,
(Although) Jesus entreated them, saying, "This is lasting and will not fail from off the earth."
To show suspicion and greed at the table of Majesty is ingratitude.
Because of those impudent wretches[1] who were blinded by greed, that gate of mercy was closed upon them.
On account of withholding the poor-tax no rain-clouds arise, and in consequence of fornication the plague spreads in all directions.
Whatever befalls thee of gloom and sorrow is the result of irreverence and insolence withal.
Any one behaving with irreverence in the path of the Friend is a brigand who robs men, and he is no man.
Through discipline this Heaven has been filled with light, and through discipline the angels became immaculate and holy.
By reason of irreverence the sun was eclipsed, and insolence caused an 'Azázil[2] to be turned back from the door.
The meeting of the king with the divine physician whose coming had been announced to him in a dream.
He (the king) opened his hands and clasped him to his breast and received him, like love, into his heart and soul,
And began to kiss his hand and brow and inquire concerning his home and journey.
(So) with many a question he led him to the dais. "At last," said he, "I have found a treasure by being patient."
He said (also), "O gift from God and defence against trouble, (O thou who art) the meaning of 'Patience is the key of joy'!
O thou whose countenance is the answer to every question, by thee hard knots are loosed without discussion.
Thou interpretest all that is in our hearts, thou givest a helping hand to every one whose foot is in the mire.
Welcome, O chosen one, O approved one! If thou vanish, Destiny will come (upon us) and the wide room will be straitened.
Thou art the protector of the people. He that desires (thee) not hath gone to perdition. Nay, verily, if he do not refrain...!"
How the king led the physician to the bedside of the sick girl, that he might see her condition.
When that meeting and bounteous (spiritual) repast was over, he took his hand and conducted him to the harem.
He rehearsed the tale of the invalid and her illness, and then seated him beside the sick (girl).